NFL Star Max Tuerk Dies at 26 — Inside the Tragic Death of the Young Lineman

Former NFL All-American offensive lineman at USC, Max Tuerk unexpectedly died while out on a hike leaving the 26-year-old's family devastated.

Twenty-six years old and in pursuit of an NFL career, Max Tuerk's life came to an abrupt and sad end when he reportedly died after joining his family for a hike.

WHERE THE INCIDENT OCCURRED

The athletics department at USC confirmed the news by sharing a statement from Tuerk's family that said that the tragic incident took place on a trail in the Cleveland National Forest on Saturday. Elaborating on their loss as a family, the statement continued:

"Max was a loving son & older brother and his passing leaves a giant hole in our hearts. His strength & work ethic is an inspiration."

THE TEAMS HE PLAYED FOR

As an All-American USC freshman, Tuerk played football for the Trojans from 2012 until 2015. He then became a third-round NFL draft pick for the Chargers in 2016, but an injury kept him from playing.

The following year he signed with the Arizona Cardinals but ended up playing only one game for them before being dropped in 2018.

HIS FORMER COACH IS 'HEARTBROKEN'

During his career, Tuerk played under the three head coaches Steve Sarkisian, Lane Kiffin, and Clay Helton, who reached out with a message of condolences to his grieving family and wrote:

“Heartbroken by the loss of Max Tuerk. Incredible person, teammate, and Trojan. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.”

MORE ABOUT THE DAY MAX DIED

Speaking with the Los Angeles Times, Santa Margarita High's former football coach, Harry Welch, recalled Father's Day morning, when Tuerk's father, Greg, called him to relay the sad news of Max's death.

According to Welch, the devastated father explained that Max collapsed in his arms after they finished a long hike. After efforts to revive Max proved unsuccessful, a helicopter removed him from the scene with an autopsy expected to follow.

ANOTHER RECENT LOSS IN THE NFL WORLD

Earlier this month, the NFL suffered another loss when the former wide receiver Reche Caldwell died just outside his residence in Tampa, Florida.

Caldwell got shot twice, and the police are now investigating what they believe to be a targeted attack against the 41-year-old Patriots alum.